What is a Stingray?

Are Stingrays Fish?

With their wide, flat bodies, Stingrays don’t have the classic fish look, but they are. They are flat, with broad fins that run the length of their body, giving them their distinct roundish shape. They also have a tail which is primarily used as a defense measure against predators.

Stingrays can live up to 25 years, and can grow up to 14 ft long. They are carnivorous and their diet includes clams, oysters, shrimps and crabs.

9 Interesting Facts about Stingrays

They are related to sharks, and just like sharks, they are boneless creatures, with their bodies being supported by cartilage.

There are more than 60 species of stingrays in the world!

They prefer living in shallow waters near the shore, as a safety measure against predators of the deep sea, such as sharks, seals and larger fish.

Depending on their species, their tail has spines or a venom, and is used as a defense mechanism. It is also used as a maneuvering mechanism at times.

They don’t use their eyes to find their pray, they sense electrical charges emitted by the prey instead.

Stingrays may live a solitary life, or may live in groups.

Their body coloration reflects the ocean floor, serving as a camouflage from their predators.

They swim in interesting patterns – Some of them swim by creating wave like patterns with their bodies, while others flap their fins like wings in order to swim.

Stingray venom is fatal to humans, and is even a part of Greek mythology!